During Pride season, we celebrate our community’s strength and acknowledge our challenges. Our content creator, Amin Falah, shares his story of confronting homophobia. At just 24 years old, Amin has encountered various froms of discrimination throughout his upbringing in Netherlands. If you’ve ever faced homophobic bullying or assault, you’re not alone, and we hope Amin’s story offers you strength and inspiration.
Note: This blog contains a graphic image that some may find disturbing.
I’ve always dealt with homophobia. When I was younger, I remember asking my mother what “gay” meant because kids and adults called me that when I was just 8. I was a flamboyant, playful, and creative child, so even before I understood my sexuality, I was being defined by others. Unfortunately, that was only the beginning.
“You should tell everyone!”
In high school, people always felt entitled to push me to talk about my sexual preferences. I knew I was attracted to men, but why should I confirm this for others? Am I helping myself or just satisfying people’s curiosity? One time, my teacher told me in front of the class that I couldn’t go on a school trip unless I came out in front of everyone.
Amin is ROMEO’s content creator, reality TV star, and drag performer. What sets him apart is that he is always unapologetically himself.
A violent ambush
Later on in life, I faced more severe violence. Normally, when I would walk out of the house, I’d get looked at up and down disapprovingly or have slurs yelled at me. But one time, I faced another level of assault.
One day, I was attacked by a bunch of guys that were specifically waiting for me. I didn’t know any of these men. But they knew me from social media.
”The men found me because I had posted about the hotel where I was staying,” Amin writes. If you ever think you are at risk, make sure to watch out for what you share online.
Embracing myself
When I was attacked in front of my hotel by a group of 12, little went through my mind. Strangely enough, I felt no pain at that moment. I was mainly surprised by what had happened to me. I had always felt so untouchable precisely because I had dared to be myself.
I remember how I used to unconsciously adapt to others to avoid judgment, like deepening my voice around straight men. I’ve come a long way from that; today, I don’t do anything remotely similar. I embrace who I am and don’t seek everyone’s approval. Sure, respect from others is nice, but self-respect is more important to me.
How homophobia changes us all
Homophobia still leaves an impact on me. For instance, I’ve developed my own prejudices, anticipating how others might judge me. It’s unfortunate, but it’s a defense mechanism. I don’t act on my prejudices; they don’t lead to violence or unsolicited opinion-sharing, and I always remind myself that it’s human to have prejudices – it’s just whether or not you act on them.
The impact of homophobia is different for everyone because people are in different situations. The biggest challenge is that it will continue to remain a problem. While we are making progress in visibility, opportunities, and respect in many places, homosexuality is still punishable in 67 countries. Many people everywhere continue to judge others based on their sexuality due to their upbringing or religion.
A lot more work has to be done. But we will get there!
Homophobia impacts our daily lives in many ways. Do you have a story to share? We’d love to hear about your experiences—send us a message on Instagram. 💙